Romanian Air Force to be equipped with high-performance missiles providing advanced air-to-air capabilities for F-16 aircraft

The Romanian Air Force will be equipped with high-performance missiles that provide advanced air-to-air capabilities for F-16 aircraft. The United States has approved the sale to Romania - the American Embassy in Bucharest announced this morning, and - a few minutes later - National Defence Minister Angel Tilvar welcomed the decision.

The purchase of Sidewinder Block II missiles is part of a larger, long-term modernization effort that the United States is supporting for the Romanian Air Force. The missiles are valued at about 70 million US dollars, the embassy release said.

US Foreign Secretary in Bucharest Michael Dickerson said the acquisition is not just a transaction, it is a testament to our shared commitment to security and peace.

These advanced missiles will secure Romanian skies, he said. Bucharest's Defence Minister Angel Tilvar also said that these state-of-the-art air-to-air systems significantly enhance the safety of national and allied airspace and ensure a high degree of interoperability with similar US military structures.

The procurement programme also includes the logistical support package, i.e. spare guidance heads, training missiles, personnel training, technical assistance, technical documentation and transport services, the Defence Minister stressed. Block II contains the most advanced Sidewinder missile technology to date and is currently in service with the US military.

It features a focal plane homing device mounted on a highly manoeuvrable airframe with a greatly improved infrared countermeasures function. Unlike previous models it can even be used against ground targets.

The missile gives the combat crew the chance to make the first strike, a capability essential for survivability during aerial combat manoeuvres.

Translated by: Radu Matei